Somalia:Tensions Rise in Galkayo as Puntland Opposes Somali President’s Planned Visit

Fears of a possible armed confrontation are growing in Galkayo after Puntland reportedly declared that Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud would not be allowed to visit the Galmudug-administered side of the divided city.

The political dispute has already disrupted daily life. Businesses across northern Galkayo remained closed on Sunday as traders and residents feared that the escalating rhetoric could lead to armed clashes.

Galkayo is divided between Puntland, which controls the northern part, and Galmudug, which administers the southern part. Despite a history of deadly confrontations, the city has enjoyed relative peace and growing commercial cooperation in recent years.

The latest developments have therefore caused serious concern among residents who remember the devastating consequences of previous conflicts in Mudug. Historically, armed confrontations in the region have contributed to wider instability and clan-based violence across Somalia.

Local communities, business leaders and peace advocates are calling on both Puntland and Galmudug to exercise restraint, avoid inflammatory statements and resolve their political differences through dialogue.

Any renewed fighting in Galkayo could destroy years of peacebuilding, divide communities and severely affect trade, transport and humanitarian access throughout central and northeastern Somalia.

The Federal Government, traditional elders and international partners are being urged to intervene before political tensions develop into an armed conflict.

Waagacusub Media will continue monitoring the situation and reporting further developments.